As Russia’s war in Ukraine extends into a third year, President Vladimir Putin’s forces make a strategic move, capturing the eastern city of Avdiivka. The conflict, marked by shifts in momentum, takes a darker turn for Kyiv as President Volodymyr Zelenskiy reshuffles military leadership amid disputes over conscription and battlefield strategy. With Ukraine’s troops facing ammunition shortages and internal conflicts, Russia’s offensive raises concerns about the evolving dynamics of the prolonged conflict.
Timeline of Key Events: Avdiivka’s Fall Marks a Pivotal Moment
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Avdiivka Falls (Feb. 17, 2024): Ukraine’s military withdraws from Avdiivka, providing a major battlefield victory for advancing Russian forces. Troops shift to a defensive stance on more favorable lines.
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Navalny Dies in Prison (Feb. 16, 2024): Russian activist Alexey Navalny, a vocal opponent of the war, dies in a maximum-security camp, triggering global outrage and highlighting the risks of opposing Putin’s regime.
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Military Chief Replaced (Feb. 8, 2024): Zelenskiy replaces army chief Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, ending speculation over leadership rifts, intensifying uncertainties about the war’s direction.
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EU Approves Ukraine Funding (Feb. 1, 2024): European Union leaders secure a €50 billion ($54 billion) aid package for Ukraine, overcoming hurdles as US funding remains stalled in Congress.
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Massive Attack Across Ukraine (Dec. 29, 2023): Russian forces launch a substantial missile and drone barrage on mostly civilian targets, escalating the conflict’s intensity.
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EU Opens Membership Talks With Kyiv (Dec. 14, 2023): EU leaders agree to open membership talks with Ukraine, signaling a historic win for the nation and a boost to its morale.
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Putin Makes Bid for Fifth Term (Dec. 8, 2023): Putin announces his candidacy for a fifth term, emphasizing popular support amid the ongoing war.
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Zaluzhnyi Declares Stalemate (Nov. 1, 2023): Former military chief Zaluzhnyi characterizes the war as a stalemate, sparking public contradiction from President Zelenskiy.
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Biden Vows Funding Fix (Oct. 2, 2023): President Biden urges Congress for quick funding for Ukraine, foreshadowing a protracted battle over financial support.
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Skepticism Grows in Washington (Sept. 22, 2023): Zelenskiy faces skepticism in Washington during a visit, particularly from Congressional Republicans.
This timeline highlights critical events shaping the war’s trajectory, with Avdiivka’s fall serving as a pivotal moment in the conflict’s current phase.
